Dubrovnik: Sea Kayaking & Snorkeling Tour Lokrum Island

Summary

Sea kayak past Dubrovnik walls to Lokrum caves with local guide

You’ll kayak from Dubrovnik’s Old Town along the Adriatic coast toward Lokrum Island, guided by a local who knows every story behind those ancient walls. There’s time for snorkeling at Betina beach cave (bring curiosity and maybe a sense of humor). Expect fresh air, new angles on famous sights, and that feeling of saltwater drying on your skin as you drift back toward shore.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what Dubrovnik looks like from the water? I didn’t really think about it until we stood on that little beach under Pile Gate, squinting at the sun bouncing off the sea. Our guide, Marko, handed out lifejackets and cracked a joke about how nobody ever paddles straight the first time. The air smelled salty and a bit like sunscreen — you know that mix? We set off in these bright yellow kayaks, paddles clacking awkwardly at first, but after a few minutes it felt almost meditative, just gliding out past the old stone walls while Marko pointed out where Game of Thrones filmed (he seemed half-proud, half-tired of talking about it).

Paddling toward Lokrum Island was quieter than I expected. The city faded behind us except for the hum of boats and distant voices echoing off Fort Lovrijenac. There’s something strange about seeing those ancient walls from this angle — they look softer somehow. When we got close to Betina beach, Marko told us there’s a cave only reachable by water. I hesitated before jumping in (the Adriatic is colder than it looks), but snorkeling there was worth it — tiny fish everywhere, and sunlight flickering through the surface above. Someone tried to say “Lokrum” in Croatian and completely botched it; even Marko laughed.

The paddle back was slower — arms getting tired, but nobody seemed in a rush. We floated under the city walls, so close you could see little plants growing between stones older than most countries. I still think about that view sometimes; there’s a quietness to it you don’t get up on the ramparts with all the crowds. The tour ended back at Pile bay with damp hair and salt on my skin, which honestly felt like part of the whole point.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sea kayaking and snorkelling tour

• Meet guide in central Dubrovnik
• Go to Pile park for instructions
• Learn paddling and steering basics
• Paddle towards Lokrum Island
• Enjoy views of Lovrjenac fort and city walls
• Stop at Betina beach for swimming and snorkelling
• Paddle back to Pile bay

Top questions

Where does the Dubrovnik sea kayaking tour start?

The tour starts at the small beach under Pile Gate near restaurant Orhan in Dubrovnik.

Is snorkeling equipment included on this tour?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included for all participants.

How long does the sea kayaking & snorkeling tour last?

The adventure lasts around 2 hours total.

Do I need previous kayaking experience?

No previous experience is needed; guides explain everything at the start.

What should I bring for this day trip to Lokrum Island?

Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and maybe a towel; waterproof bags are provided.

Is hotel pickup included in this Dubrovnik kayak tour?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet directly at the starting point near Pile Gate.

Can children join this kayaking & snorkeling trip?

Yes, children aged 4+ can join if accompanied by an adult.

Are late arrivals allowed to join after departure?

No, latecomers cannot join after departure and refunds are not possible for missed tours.

What’s included

Your morning or afternoon includes all kayaking gear—double sit-on-top kayak, lifejacket, waterproof bag for your things—plus bottled water and use of snorkeling equipment. A professional local guide leads you from Pile bay to Lokrum Island’s caves and back again.